1974 Lada 1200 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1974 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 614 kg more than 1974 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lada 1200 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Opel Signum (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada 1200 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lada | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 60 L |
